Q. Temporary Repairs to rail fracture?
If a welding party is not readily available, the fracture shall be repaired by using a cut-rail (not less than 4 meter long) and clamped/bolted.
i) A traffic block shall be taken as soon as possible preferably when the rail temperature is within the range specified for td.
ii) (a) Two points on either side of the fracture shall be marked on the rail such that the length of closure rail (not less than 4 meters) to be inserted is equal to the total length of the rail pieces removed from the track minus allowances for two welds and saw cut (normally 51 mm).
(b) Alternately two points on either side of the fracture shall be marked on the rail at a distance equal to the length of the available closure rail. The length of closure rail should not become less than 4 meters at the time of permanent repairs.
iii) The rails shall then be cut through at these points simultaneously, if possible. The closure rail shall then be inserted joined After joining the traffic shall then be resumed at restricted speed. In case closure rail inserted one of the joints may have to be provided with closure piece of adequate width and joined by one meter fishplate and clamps.